adapter

noun

adapt·​er ə-ˈdap-tər 

a-

variants or less commonly adaptor

1

: one that adapts

2

a

: a device for connecting two parts (as of different diameters) of an apparatus

b

: an attachment for adapting apparatus for uses not originally intended

Synonyms of adapter

• accessory
• option
• appliance

Examples of adapter in a Sentence

adapters for the food mixer include a meat grinder and an ice cream maker

Recent Examples on the Web

There are so many little pockets and interior compartments to keep cords, chargers, adapters, memory cards, and backup batteries in their own little spot. —Lauren Breedlove, Travel + Leisure, 7 Feb. 2026

Wired headphones, chargers, and adapters go here, so you’ll never be stuck rummaging through a tote bag for an EU-compatible plug at the gate again. —Elly Leavitt, Vogue, 6 Feb. 2026

The model decides which adapter to use depending on what question the user asks. —Jeremy Kahn, Fortune, 4 Feb. 2026

Instead, come prepared with a universal travel adapter that’ll work in any of the outlets. —Jill Schildhouse, Southern Living, 30 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

adapt + -er entry 2

First Known Use

1753, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for adapter

• adaptor
• subchapter
• apter
• captor
• chapter
• raptor

Kids Definition

adapter

noun

adapt·​er

variants also adaptor

ə-ˈdap-tər 

1

: someone or something that adapts

2

a

: a device for connecting two parts (as of different diameters) of a usually larger device

b

: an attachment for adapting a device for uses not originally intended

Medical Definition

adapter

noun

adapt·​er

variants also adaptor

ə-ˈdap-tər 

1

: one that adapts

2

a

: a device for connecting two parts (as of different diameters) of an apparatus

b

: an attachment for adapting apparatus for uses not originally intended